pasta

Pasta isn't unhealthy for you

Pasta isn't unhealthy for you

Pasta, for one food that everyone adores, has been unfairly criticized.It's been labeled as nutritionally deficient, blamed for extra pounds, and shunned by numerous dieters and detoxers. Contrary to this popular belief, pasta is actually a wholesome diet, healthier than many other foods. Unlike most ‘refined' carbohydrates, which are quickly absorbed into the circulation, pasta has a low glycemic index (low GI), which indicates that blood sugar levels increase to a lower level when compared to high-GI meals. Let's have a look at the facts.

  1. Pasta is not nutritionally deficient.

Yes, white pasta is a "refined grain," which means that the outer layer of the wheat kernel has been removed. But white pasta does not fall in the same category as refined grain items like doughnuts and pastries. White pasta still contains fiber and is high in B vitamins and iron. If you want extra fiber, choose whole grain pasta, which has up to seven grams of fiber per serving, which is roughly one-third of what a woman need in a day.

  1. It is a part of a healthy diet.

Pasta is made from grain, which is one of the essential food categories. On top of that, it also contains vegetables, fruits, fish, and chicken. So, it's a wonderful source of energy and, if cooked from whole grains, it may also supply fiber. This can assist with gastrointestinal issues as well as decrease cholesterol level.

  1. It may benefit in the prevention of cancer.

Whole-grain pasta has a plethora of health benefits. It has various components that can prevent you from some types of cancer, including stomach and colon cancer. Try spaghetti carbonara using whole-grain pasta for a wonderful treat. 

  1. Pasta does not cause insulin spike.

Pasta rates low on the Glycemic Index, which measures how much your blood sugar rises after eating certain meals. Pasta has a GI of 50-55 (called a low Glycemic Index item), but white bread has a GI of 70. (considered high). Low glycemic meals are supposed to be digested more slowly, resulting in less volatility in insulin levels, which is beneficial to health. The GI is far from ideal, but it implies that pasta does not trigger blood sugar spikes and drops, as some people assume.

  1. Pasta is not a dieter's worst nightmare.

Pasta is a component of the Mediterranean Diet, a style of eating that has been proven in several studies to provide health benefits such as a lower risk of heart disease and diabetes—as well as a healthy weight. In one study, the Mediterranean Diet, which contains plenty of fruits and vegetables, seafood, and olive oil, was shown to be just as efficient as a low-carb diet for losing weight.

  1. Pasta is more than simply cream sauce.

Although many people connect pasta with heavy cream sauces and loads of meatballs, it is really a fantastic vehicle for a variety of healthful foods such as veggies, nuts, lean meats, and heart-healthy oils.

  1. It makes you less ‘Hangry’

It's fulfilling, which means it can satisfy your hunger for a long period. That will make you less prone to become irritable or cranky – you know, "hangry."

So, there is no need to feel guilty about enjoying pasta. If you are concerned about the fat content, limit yourself to one serving (approximately one cup cooked), add an equal or greater amount of roasted or sautéed veggies, drizzle with a teaspoon or two of olive oil, and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a shake of red pepper flakes. And enjoy!


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